University of Cambridge
Department of Veterinary Medicine

Applications are invited for this fixed-term postdoctoral position, funded by a grant from the US government (DARPA), on a project aiming to develop solutions to reduce the risk of zoonotic spillover from bats globally.

The multi-disciplinary research project is carried out by an international consortium, led by Montana State University (Dr Raina Plowright) with the University of Cambridge, Cornell University, the University of California (Los Angeles and Berkeley), NIH Rocky Mountain Labs, Griffith University, the Zoological Society of London and the University of Ghana. The aims of the project are (1) to characterise the genetic and phenotypic diversity of Henipaviruses across three continents, their associations to local bat species and their potential for spillover; (2) develop a suite of mathematical models for the dynamics and evolution of Henipaviruses in bats and in spillover species; (3) design and test experimental tools that can reduce virus spillover from bats.

Under Dr Restif’s direction, the PDRA will be tasked with the development and application of mathematical models for the dynamics of Hendra in Australian bat populations, as part of aim (2) above. The work will be done in close collaboration with other modelling teams based at UCLA (Prof. Jamie Lloyd-Smith), MSU (Dr Raina Plowright), Griffith University (Prof. Hamish McCallum and Dr Alison Peel). The modeller will have to integrate diverse datasets from multiple field sites and laboratories, and will be able to guide data collection and study design. This is a unique opportunity in its scope and its potential to deliver impact in One Health globally.

Applicants should have a PhD in applied mathematics, epidemiology, ecology or a related discipline, and should have experience of integrating dynamic models with biological data. A good understanding of statistical inference methods for stochastic models and scientific programming skills (preferably in R and C++) will be an advantage. The candidate must value teamwork and collaboration, have good administrative and interpersonal skills, and high computer literacy.

Applicants should submit a CHRIS/6, CV, covering letter outlining suitability for the role and contact details for two references.
Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Further particulars for the role and information about the Department www.vet.cam.ac.uk

Closing date Tuesday 18th May 2021

Interviews will be held on Friday 28th May 2021

Please note that shortlisted candidates will be expected to make a presentation at interview.